Only Windows 11 Pro will let you install Windows 11 with a local account

We already know that Windows 11 Home will require a Microsoft account (MSA) at the beginning of the installation process. What Microsoft hasn't publicized is whether it's possible to log in with just a local account. It is, but only with Windows 11 Pro.

A source close to Microsoft has now told us that the only way to avoid using an MSA is with Windows 11 Pro. According to our source, users who buy or own a PC with Windows 11 Pro may choose to use either a local account or an MSA from the very beginning of the installation process.

The Windows 11 Home MSA requirement isn't permanent, just unavoidable. Microsoft will allow the user to transition to a local account once the Windows 11 Home installation process has completed. Retail versions of Windows 11 Home will offer the same experience.

So you're going to need an online account to install Windows 10 Home. If, for some reason, you truly want Windows 11, I'd suggest waiting a few months and get some cheap OEM license for Windows 11 Pro from eBay for a few dollars to save yourself the hassle.